|
Lutein
What is it?
Lutein is a carotenoid, meaning a natural colorant or pigment.
What does it do?
Lutein provides nutritional support to our eyes and skin – the only organs of the body directly exposed to the outside environment. Lutein has been linked to promoting healthy eyes. Lutein, may provide supplemental antioxidant capacity to the skin, helping counteract free radical damage.
Why is it important?
Lutein also filters the high-energy, blue wavelengths of light from the visible-light spectrum by as much as 90%. Blue light, in both indoor lighting and sunlight, is believed to induce oxidative stress and possible free-radical damage in human organs exposed to light, such as the eyes and skin.
Where can it be found?
It can be found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, plus various fruits and corn. Egg yolks are also sources of lutein. Research suggests a minimum of 6-10 mg per day of lutein from dark green leafy vegetables and other sources is necessary to realize lutein’s health benefits. Even if you eat a balanced diet, you’d need a large bowl of fresh spinach to get about 6 mg of lutein. Most Americans just don’t consume enough foods rich in lutein. Lutein is widely available in a variety of nutritional supplements and fortified foods and beverages for people wanting to supplement their dietary intake of lutein, making their diet even better for their eyes and skin.
Lutein cannot be manufactured by the body. The only way to take advantage of lutein's antioxidant benefits is by consuming it.
Recommended Herbalife Products
|
